An F1 team has been rocked and left heartbroken by the death of a long-serving team member as they paid tribute to a ‘true stalwart’ and are ‘grateful for their time together’
Aston Martin have been left heartbroken by the death of a long-serving team member.
The Silverstone-based F1 team have paid a special tribute to veteran tyre technician Mick Fern, also known as ‘Biscuit’, who died on Wednesday, July 29. Aston Martin showed Fern was in their thoughts ahead of the Hungary Grand Prix on Sunday, making a sign that affectionately read: “Biscuit, thinking of you.”
They revealed Mick was fighting for his life over the weekend, but sadly it was announced in a heartfelt social media post that the hugely popular team member had passed away after nearly four decades in the paddock.
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A statement read: “The thoughts of the entire team and F1 community are with the family and friends of our team-mate, Mick Fern, affectionately known to so many of us as Biscuit, who passed away peacefully today.
“Biscuit was a true stalwart who showed loyalty and support to all those around him. He welcomed everyone with open arms and made our travelling world feel more like home.
“Biscuit spent 35 years in the paddock and he was respected by all who worked with him. We are all so grateful for our time together and will dearly miss his warmth and humour.”
Aston Martin team ambassador Pedro de la Rosa added: “Biscuit, you will always be with us, a legend, a hero, an example for all. Big hug to all the family and friends. RIP.”
Mick had been working with the Silverstone-based team since their days as Force India until they entered administration. Before that, he worked with Jordan. The death of such a long-standing memeber of the paddock saw tributes paid across the sport.
Sky Sports presenter Rachel Brookes said: “I am so so sorry for your loss, his family’s loss, for the paddock’s loss, and everyone who knew him. Such a wonderful character who always made me smile. Give Jim a big hug and sending all of you my love. RIP Biscuit.”
The Alpine F1 team wrote: “A loss for the whole Formula One community. Thoughts are with you and Biscuit’s family.”
F1 TV presenter and motorsport engineer Ruth Buscombe penned: “A truly wonderful human I’m proud to have called my friend along with so many others in our Paddock.”